Do you want to become a surrogate mother? Are you considering working with a surrogacy agency? 

As a surrogate, this is one of the best decisions you can make. 

Working with a reputable, full-service surrogacy agency can make the process much easier and significantly less stressful. In addition to being experts at matching surrogates and intended parents, full-service agencies coordinate every aspect of the surrogacy process, connect you with trusted professionals, and provide round-the-clock support. 

But how exactly do you start working with an agency? And how can you make this process as smooth as possible? Read on to find out. 

How do I decide if surrogacy is right for me?

Becoming a surrogate mother is one of the most selfless and rewarding decisions a person can make. But of course, this is not a decision to take lightly. It’s important to be sure that surrogacy is the right choice for you and your family … and physically and emotionally prepared to make this commitment. 

Before you start the process of becoming a surrogate mother, be sure to ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I physically and emotionally healthy enough to be a surrogate? 
  • Are my motivations coming from the right place?
  • Do I meet the surrogacy agency’s requirements?
  • Do I love being pregnant?
  • Am I ready to commit to the process?
  • Am I financially stable?
  • Am I an organized person?
  • Do I have the support I’ll need?

To learn more about the requirements for becoming a surrogate, follow this link.  

How does a surrogacy agency find a surrogate?

Usually, prospective surrogates will reach out to an agency, and they will pre-screen her. (You can find more about the process at Surrogate Parenting Services below.)

Many of the surrogates at SPS are personal referrals from current or past surrogates in our program. They had an incredibly memorable experience, and they want to help others experience the joy of surrogacy.

How are surrogate mothers screened?

At SPS, there are several steps involved in the screening process.

First, we do a phone interview to determine if there is anything that would immediately disqualify her, such as her age, the number of deliveries she’s had, or where she’s located. 

If there are no issues, we invite her to complete her profile and sign medical releases, so we can review her pregnancy and delivery records. 

Then, there is a video interview, a psychological screening, and finally, the potential surrogate meets with Cristie Montgomery, our founder and president. 

Can I be a surrogate if I haven’t had a child?

Unfortunately, no. 

Most clinics require surrogates to have carried to term at least one child who they are currently raising. This enables clinics to review potential surrogates’ prenatal and delivery records and confirm that there were no health complications for the surrogate or her children. If there were issues in past pregnancies or deliveries, this can indicate that similar problems may occur with subsequent pregnancies. 

Clinics also want to ensure that potential surrogates know what to expect for the most part and will be better prepared for the challenges of pregnancy. 

As a surrogate mother, who pays for your medical expenses?

Your medical expenses will be fully paid by insurance. 

At SPS, we have a third party insurance specialist review the surrogate’s personal insurance policy. If it’s not surrogacy friendly, the intended parents will be given options for surrogacy friendly coverage for the journey. If the surrogate is able to use her personal insurance, she will be compensated more for that. 

Learn More About Becoming a Surrogate with Surrogate Parenting Services 

Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate over 30 years of helping to bring dreams to life! Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy program that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We’re passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both sides and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.   

Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.